Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy is commonly seen in diabetic patients. This is a situation in which the affected person’s nerves get damaged. When the level of sugar with in the blood remain high for a long duration then it may leads to nerve damages. Some of affected people may not experience any pain while some others have tingling, pain, numbness etc on the arms and legs. Those who have diabetes for more than 25 years are more prone to develop this disease. People with high blood pressure and more fat in their blood are also in risk.

Different Types of Diabetic Neuropathy

There are four different subdivisions for diabetic neuropathy and they are autonomic, peripheral, focal and proximal diabetic neuropathy.

Diabetic Autonomic Neuropathy

It may affect the digestive tract, blood vessels, stomach, sex organs, urinary tract etc. When it affects the digestive tract then it may produce symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, heartburn, constipation, nausea, vomiting etc. If it affects the blood-vessels then it may cause dizziness, low blood pressure, blacking out, high heart rate, nausea etc. When it affects the nerves of the sex organs then it results in erectile dysfunction, reduced or dry ejaculation, low vaginal lubrication, lack of orgasm etc. If it’s the urinary system hat get affected then there may be difficult in emptying the bladder, leaking of urine, bloating, increased urination at night etc.

Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

In peripheral neuropathy the areas around the legs and feet are usually affected. There may be slight pain, numbness, tingling and burning sensation on the feet and legs. The symptoms rarely appear on the abdomen, arms and back. Sometimes it may result in loss of sensations. This in turn will increase your risks of getting foot diseases. Any sores or injuries may go unrecognized due to the lack of sensation. Hence you need to do extra care in foot and skin care. Check your foot and legs regularly and apply moisturizers if they become dry.

Diabetic Proximal Neuropathy

It may affect the thighs, buttocks, hip etc and thus leads to pain and weakness of the legs. It needs physiotherapy and medication for correcting the problem.

Diabetic Focal Neuropathy

It affects the nerves in head, leg and torso resulting in pain and muscle weakness. It results in eye pain, double vision, pain in lower back, chest abdomen etc. It may even cause paralysis of one side of the face.

In order to prevent or control these conditions maintain your blood sugar level very well and do exercise regularly.